Construction
Here we'll deal with some of the details regarding construction of the tables
It is important here to bear in mind our requirement for a consistent table height of 72cm, which we discussed earlier.
Table Size
We've started out with a standard table size of 140 x 105cm. This is our standard module. It is exactly four Scalextric standard straights long, by three wide. Most of our module designs are based on this, and it's not a bad size for transporting and storage.
However, the size of each table is not a deal breaker. Your table size can be whatever size fits in your car, or whatever size is convenient for you. It may be important for you to make all your tables the same size, so that they can be stacked and stored conveniently, but they do not have to match anybody else's table size, as long as you stick to the two basic requirements of the system.
There is however, one big advantage to choosing our standard 140 x 105cm table size, which is that we've put together a whole load of track module designs which will fit exactly on that table size, and we've also produced blueprints for folding table frames based on that size. So if that size of table works for you, then there are loads of resources available, and you can probably save yourself a lot of time.
Table Top
For the tops of your tables we'd suggest a thin sheet material, strengthened with a simple softwood frame underneath, around the edge of the sheet.
The sheet thickness is about finding the right balance for you. Anything thicker than 9mm would probably be too heavy to handle easily. Thinner materials will obviously be lighter but may require additional support battens.
For the sheet material MDF is ideal, though plywood or OSB are also possibilities. MDF has the best finish and paints well. Plywood is stronger and lighter, and OSB is lighter and cheaper, but the finish is rough.
If you are willing to use more support battens, then hardboard may be used, and would probably be the lightest option.
For the frame we'd suggest 3”x1” planed softwood, which works out at around 70x20mm.
Underframe
There are two ways to support your tables at the required 72cm height.
First, there are commercially available adjustable legs of the right size which can be screwed in and out. Just search for “dining tablelegs”
The second option is to make your own underframes, or legs. If you're doing this, then there are commercially available adjustable feet, which can be attached to the bottom of your legs, to give them some height adjustment to account for any inaccuracy or uneven floors.
It's worth bearing in mind that the thicker, or heavier the table top that you use, the more esential it is that the legs are detachable.
Plans
Download plans for a three legged folding table design. This underframe, folds away completely into the table top.
This allows us to build a simple crate for transport and/or storage..
Some adjustments to the plans will be required to take account of the actual dimensions of the materials you use, and the plans may nee to be "mirrored" to provide optimal placement of the third leg. Also please bear in mind the weight, these plans may not be suitable for heavier table surfaces.